Medical Conditions Seen in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Traits

Joggin Partner

Lap Dog

Good with Children

Warm Weather

Cold Weather

Grooming Requirements

Shedding

Barking

Ease of Training

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier History

The soft coated wheaten terrier originated in Ireland as an all-around farm dog. It exterminated vermin, guarded the homestead and rounded up stock. Its date of origin is unknown, but it was established by the 1700s.

Like many farm breeds, it early history is largely undocumented. It is likely to have been crossed with other dogs as various needs and circumstances arose.

In 1937 the SCWT was granted breed status in Ireland. This allowed it to compete in dog shows. An Irish Championship of the time required a SCWT to win not only in the show ring, but to prove itself as a hunter of badgers, rabbits and rats.

The first SCWT came to America in 1946.

The AKC recognized the SCWT in 1973. It is most popular today as a companion and show dog.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Behavior Concerns

Makes a fun-loving and affectionate companion.

Its gentle and playful nature makes it a good match for children.

Friendly toward strangers.

Usually good with other dogs and pets.

Makes an attentive watchdog, and adequate protection dog.

It is eager to please but can be headstrong.

Does best with reward-based training involving food and games.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Suggested Exercises

Makes a well-behaved housedog as long as its exercise needs are met.

Requires a moderate walk or short jog, or a run in an enclosed area, every day.

Because it loves to run and hunt, it should only be let loose in a safely enclosed.

Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.

Its thick soft coat provides some protection against cold and wet weather.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Grooming

Coat is abundant and soft; it has no noticeable undercoat.

The coat needs brushing or combing every other day.

Bathing and trimming every other month is needed to maintain the correct look.

The coat is easier to maintain if it is clipped to about 3".

The coat does not tend to shed.

Suggested Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Nutritional Needs

SCWT conformation is for a moderate build.

You should be able to feel the ribs under the coat, but they should not be too noticeable.

Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Specialty Care

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